The whitestone townscape of Oamaru contains some of the best-preserved heritage buildings in New Zealand. In the late 19th century, the town prospered through goldmining, quarrying and timber milling. Some of the wealth was spent on elegant stone buildings made from local limestone. The Harbour-Tyne Street area is particularly special – and the shopping is great too. After exploring the Victorian precinct, swing by the steampunk playground and museum.

Furthermore, Oamaru Harbour is home to a colony of little blue penguins, and you can also see yellow-eyed penguins from a special hide. Penguin viewing is best just before sunset.

The public gardens in Oamaru are widely acclaimed, as is the Oamaru Farmers' Market which occurs every Sunday. Grab a coffee and a tasty bit to eat, listen to music and catch up with new friends. Functional facts: Approx. population 8600, i-SITE Visitor Centre, good range of shops and services.